Should I go for a 2010-2015 Ford Expedition or something else?

I’m looking to get a 7-passenger SUV that can tow a travel trailer and handle other towing needs. Right now, I have a 2015 Suburban, but I’m thinking of getting out of it because the payments are pretty high, and it can only tow 6,000 lbs.

The older Ford Expedition seems like a good option. From what I’ve read, it can tow up to 9,000 lbs and still has the same interior space as the Suburban.

What should I know about the Expedition before I buy? I’ve heard they might go through ball joints every 20k miles and that the 5.4 V8 engine has problems with spark plugs breaking off in the heads. Are these true, and should I worry?

Also, convince me to consider a Toyota Sequoia. It looks like it can tow up to 7,400 lbs. I already own a Tundra with the 5.7, and I like it a lot.

Looking to stay within the $15,000-$20,000 range.

By 2010, the spark plug issue was resolved, but the cam phaser problems with the 5.4 V8 still exist. The first-generation 3.5 Ecoboost engines had some trouble with carbon buildup, too. You might want to ask around this forum’s F-150 section for more opinions.

About ball joints—they don’t fail every 20k. They’re a normal wear-and-tear part, especially on heavier trucks. Replacing them costs around $600 at a good shop, so it’s not a huge deal.

The Expeditions are solid, but I’d skip the 5.4 V8. They’re not only known for spark plug issues but are also really underpowered. The 3.5 Ecoboost is a much better option—it has way more power.

Ren said:
The Expeditions are solid, but I’d skip the 5.4 V8. They’re not only known for spark plug issues but are also really underpowered. The 3.5 Ecoboost is a much better option—it has way more power.

I had a Flex with the 3.5 Ecoboost, and I was happy with it overall. Good performance.

I’ve got a 2011 Expedition Limited. Bought it for the same reasons you’re looking—towing an 8,000-lb camper and enough seating for family trips. No major issues so far. It makes a light ticking noise at low speeds, but I’ve heard it’s normal and doesn’t cause problems.

For towing, it’s decent, but the MPG is rough. I get about 8 mpg while towing and 13 mpg for everyday driving, no matter how I drive.

Got it with 45,000 miles on it, and now it’s just under 100,000. Maintenance has been easy—mostly just oil changes and an AC recharge.

Besides the high payment, how do you like your Suburban? I’m thinking about getting a 2017 model.

Remi said:
Besides the high payment, how do you like your Suburban? I’m thinking about getting a 2017 model.

I like it a lot. It’s comfortable and drives well. The 5.3 engine can feel a bit hesitant when you step on it at first, but overall, it’s solid. The Bose stereo system is decent, with a nice bass thump—nothing crazy, though.

I’ve had a few minor issues. The rear defrost tab came off, and the lane departure camera system fell off shortly after I got it. The dealer replaced the windshield twice for some reason—no idea why. The driver’s seat has a motor that vibrates for lane departure warnings, and that motor failed but was replaced under warranty. A wheel bearing went bad at 75,000 miles, but it was an easy fix—I swapped it out in my driveway in about an hour.

It’s a great ride overall.